by The year 2026 has officially begun, and with it comes the start of the winter anime season already being described by fans and industry watchers as a rare “bumper season.” The reason is simple: three of the biggest modern anime franchises Oshi no Ko, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, and Jujutsu Kaisen are all airing new seasons at the same time.
This kind of overlap is unusual. Each of these titles has headlined previous seasons on its own, but seeing them air together in one cour has turned Winter 2026 into a season packed with attention, discussion, and extremely high expectations.
With so many major titles and promising newcomers, many viewers especially casual or returning anime fans may be asking:
“Which shows should I actually watch?”
Below, we break down the key highlights of Winter 2026, introduce standout new series, and offer beginner-friendly guidance on where to start.
The “Big Three” of Winter 2026
Oshi no Ko – Season 3
One of the most talked-about anime of the past decade, Oshi no Ko enters its third season this winter. Known for its shocking twists, commentary on the entertainment industry, and emotionally heavy storytelling, the series has built a massive fanbase.
While Season 3 continues complex storylines, newcomers are not completely shut out. Previous episodes are widely available via streaming, and the original manga provides clear story recaps. For viewers who enjoy drama, mystery, and psychological tension, Oshi no Ko remains essential viewing.
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Season 2
Often described as one of the most emotionally resonant fantasy anime of recent years, Frieren returns with its second season starting January 16, 2026, airing on Nippon Television.
Unlike many fantasy series, Frieren focuses on life after the hero’s journey ends. Its quiet pacing, reflective tone, and universal themes time, memory, and loss make it especially approachable for beginners.
Among the “big three,” many critics recommend Frieren as the best starting point for new or returning anime viewers due to its clarity and emotional accessibility.
Jujutsu Kaisen – Season 3
A global phenomenon, Jujutsu Kaisen returns with its third season, continuing its dark, high-stakes battles between sorcerers and curses. Known for top-tier animation and intense action, the series remains a cornerstone of modern shōnen anime.
While the story is complex by this point, recap videos and streaming access to earlier seasons make catching up manageable. Fans of action-heavy anime will find Winter 2026 unthinkable without Jujutsu Kaisen.
Expert Opinion: Which One Should You Watch First?
Industry commentators note that all three series already have strong fanbases, but they also stress that new viewers are not excluded. Streaming services, official websites, and manga apps make it easy to catch up quickly.
If forced to choose just one:
- Best for beginners: Frieren
- Best for drama lovers: Oshi no Ko
- Best for action fans: Jujutsu Kaisen
That said, all three are considered high-quality, must-watch titles this season.
Other Returning Series to Watch
Golden Kamuy
As the story moves toward its final stage, Golden Kamuy continues to build tension around the hunt for Ainu gold. With its mix of historical drama, survival action, and dark humor, the series remains a standout for mature viewers.
Medalist
Following a highly praised first season, Medalist centered on competitive figure skating—returns with expectations high. Its realistic portrayal of sports, ambition, and personal struggle has earned strong word-of-mouth support.
New Anime Gaining Attention in Winter 2026
Darwin’s Incident
One of the most anticipated new series this season, Darwin’s Incident is based on a manga that won the Manga Taisho Award. The story explores the ethical and social turmoil caused by the existence of a human–chimpanzee hybrid.
Dark, thought-provoking, and politically charged, this series is recommended for viewers looking for something intellectually challenging beyond typical genre formulas.
High School! Kimengumi
Originally a hit comedy manga from the 1980s, High School! Kimengumi returns as a modern anime adaptation. Longtime fans are curious to see how its exaggerated humor and unconventional characters will translate for today’s audience.
For viewers interested in retro revivals and lighthearted comedy, this is one of the season’s most intriguing experiments.
Ikoku Nikki
A quieter but deeply emotional series, Ikoku Nikki tells the story of a shy novelist and her honest, emotionally open 15-year-old niece. Unlike many anime this season, it avoids spectacle in favor of introspection and human connection.
Fans describe it as “soul-cleansing”, making it ideal for viewers who enjoy slice-of-life drama with emotional depth.
Why Winter 2026 Stands Out
What makes this season special isn’t just the number of popular titles—it’s the range of storytelling styles:
- Blockbuster action (Jujutsu Kaisen)
- Emotional fantasy (Frieren)
- Industry drama (Oshi no Ko)
- Intellectual sci-fi (Darwin’s Incident)
- Healing slice-of-life (Ikoku Nikki)
- Nostalgic comedy (Kimengumi)
It’s rare to see so many high-profile and critically respected series airing together.
Final Thoughts: A Season Worth Exploring
Winter 2026 is shaping up to be one of the strongest anime seasons in recent memory. Whether you’re a longtime fan or someone returning to anime after a break, there is no shortage of compelling options.
If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to jump back into anime this is it.
